Head Bartender - Strawfire

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi is looking for a Head Bartender to join our Food & Beverage team.

Are you a master of craft?

Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional.

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognised for creating some of the world’s most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi is the definition of an unrivalled Arabian fantasy. From a 1.3km pristine private beach, landscaped pools and a private marina overlooking a natural bay, the hotel is located in the heart of Abu Dhabi and perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday or for events and meetings that make a statement, with some of the city’s largest hotel conference centres.

Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi offers award-winning 5-star luxury hospitality and authentic local experiences with 390 luxurious rooms and suites along with award-winning culinary cuisines.

Based at the Emirates palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi within the Food & Beverage Department, the Head Bartender is responsible for overseeing the daily operation of the bar, leading the bar team, and ensuring an exceptional beverage and guest experience in line with the standards of Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi. The Head Bartender reports to the Restaurant General Manager.

• Ensure the beverage section of the outlet is managed efficiently in accordance with the established concept and service standards, consistently delivering courteous, professional, efficient, and flexible service in line with Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental standards.
• Take an active role in the daily operation and ensure appropriate senior leadership coverage during the opening and closing of each function.
• Create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere by ensuring the team actively interacts with and entertains guests in a professional manner.
• Lead the training and development of Bartenders, with particular focus on freestyle bartending, mixology, cocktail preparation, and beverage knowledge.
• Proactively engage with guests by recommending cocktails, wines, non-alcoholic beverages, and promotional offerings based on their preferences.
• Apply approved suggestive-selling techniques to maximize revenue and promote higher-margin products.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of bar inventory, wine selections, beverage offerings, and current trends to confidently respond to guest inquiries.
• Maintain an extensive knowledge of beverage recipes, preparation techniques, and standard mixing procedures to ensure consistency and quality.
• Oversee the complete setup, presentation, cleanliness, and organization of the bar throughout the operation.
• Ensure the beverage selection is attractively displayed and presented in accordance with established standards.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of cash-handling procedures, check writing, credit card transactions, city ledger, and customer ledger procedures.
• Regularly review the bar and beverage menus and provide recommendations for improvements, new concepts, and promotions to the Restaurant Manager / General Manager.
• Ensure full compliance with all applicable alcohol, liquor, licensing, and responsible-service policies and regulations.
• Assist in preparing the bar's business and marketing plans in collaboration with the Restaurant Manager and contribute to the preparation and management of the departmental budget.
• Handle guest inquiries, requests, and concerns in a courteous and efficient manner. Escalate unresolved complaints to the appropriate supervisor and ensure proper follow-up with the guest.

• Diploma or professional certification in Bartending, Mixology,…